Meritor has introduced a new line of lightweight drum brakes, the Opti-Lite line. According to Meritor, the Opti-Lite drum is designed for linehaul and weight-sensitive applications such as tanker/trailer and freight, and is geared toward cost-conscious aftermarket consumers.

“Developed on the same platform as our established STEELite X30 brake drums, the Opti-Lite drum maintains the high quality associated with its genuine product heritage and offers similar weight and fuel savings,” said David Reid, senior product manager of aftermarket for Meritor. “The lower price of the Opti-Lite will appeal to customers in search of an economical drum option produced in the United States.”

Opti-Lite drums are offered in the most popular wheel-end configurations for steer, drive and trailer axle applications. Fleets and vehicle operators will benefit from a reduction in vehicle weight by more than 200 lbs. in a tandem axle tractor/trailer combination when compared to full-cast drums, according to Meritor.

“Opti-Lite drums do not require welded-on weights and offer an optimized balance spec for smoother performance on the road,” Reid added.